A look inside the world's first NBA Cafe in PH

ABS-CBN News

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MANILA - The very first NBA Cafe in the world has officially opened its doors in the Philippines, boasting 16 television screens and walls filled with jerseys, in an attempt to bring fans "closer to the NBA than ever before."

Located at the top floor of SM Aura in Bonifacio Global City, the cafe held its grand opening on Friday, attended by US ambassador to the Philippines Philip Goldberg, Utah Jazz's Gordon Hayward and retired WNBA star Tina Thompson, among others.

"From now on, NBA Cafe Manila will be the metro's default destination for all things sports, all things basketball, providing the ultimate sports and dining experience," claimed NBA Cafe general manager Nian Rigor.

The cafe features dozens of NBA memorabilia, basketball textured upholstery, and an array of food choices --from American bar and grill favorites to Asian-Filipino classics.

"Not only will NBA Cafe Manila be a hub for activity and positive energy for Pinoy basketball fans, it is also expected to attract foreign fans of the game and help boost Philippine sports tourism," added Rigor.

In a recorded message, NBA Commissioner Adam Silver was "thrilled" to have opened the first ever cafe, and only the second league-owned restaurant outside the US, in Manila.

"Filipinos are known as the most passionate basketball fans in the world and NBA Cafe Manila is another great way for them to experience the excitement of our league," said Silver.

"We hope that fans from the Philippines and all over Asia will come to the cafe to enjoy the great food," added Silver.

The NBA Café is open from 10 a.m. to 10 p.m. Sundays to Thursdays, and from 10 a.m. to 2 a.m. on Fridays and Saturdays.